Britons expressed distress over the cancellation of the initial government repatriation flight for 180 citizens stranded in the Middle East, citing “panic attacks” as the situation worsened.

The flight, planned to depart from Muscat, Oman, at 11 pm on Wednesday, was grounded overnight due to technical difficulties, according to the Foreign Office. Additional government-chartered flights, promised by Keir Starmer, are expected to rescue trapped Britons in the region soon, possibly as early as today.

A passenger set to board the flight reported witnessing individuals experiencing panic attacks due to the flight delay. They highlighted the presence of vulnerable individuals, young children, and families on the stranded plane.

The flight has been rescheduled for today, with affected passengers accommodated in a hotel overnight. The delay was attributed to slow check-in procedures, leading to the pilot exceeding flight hour limits and requiring rest before departure.

The Foreign Office is grappling with a significant consular crisis in the Middle East, with approximately 138,000 British nationals present in the region. Prime Minister Boris Johnson informed MPs that over 1,000 British nationals had returned to the UK from the United Arab Emirates on commercial flights, with more scheduled departures.

Efforts to increase flight availability included meetings between Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Emirates, and British Airways executives. Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer condemned Iran’s actions and emphasized ongoing work to facilitate the safe return of British citizens.

Among those successfully repatriated was 69-year-old Shelagh Knight, who had been stranded in Dubai. Reflecting on her ordeal, she described the fear and uncertainty experienced during the conflict.

The return journey was reportedly somber, with passengers quiet until nearing London, where relief and noise filled the aircraft. Families like Lee Smart and Nina Luminati, who faced challenges in Dubai, expressed gratitude for the support received during their return journey.

The government and authorities are committed to ensuring the safe return of British nationals amidst ongoing challenges in the region, prioritizing the well-being of those affected.